Katara marched into the Southern Water Tribe ambassador's office, with Amka following close behind, and was greeted by Bato reciting his retirement speech.

"Ah, Katara, you're finally here. Do you have your speech ready?"

"I know it by heart."

"Perfect, let's practice." Bato and Katara had agreed that after his speech, she would introduce herself to her fellow ambassadors and the rest of Zuko's council. Being the preparer she was, she had written her speech at home when she was appointed and had practiced it on her way to the Fire Nation. Her past experience had made it clear that she needed to perfect her craft early or risk being chewed up and spat out by the other ambassadors and council members.

After a while of reciting what they had prepared and answering some questions that might arise, Amka interrupted. "Don't you guys think you're trying too hard? You've done this before."

Bato sighed. "All true, but this is a dignitaries' meeting, meaning people who set the tone for international relations will be there, and we must make a good impression."

"Katara is a war hero. Doesn't that set a good enough impression?"

"Unfortunately, it doesn't. In fact, it might be a hindrance."

"How?"

"They will think Zuko and I are biased towards one another," Katara answered in Bato's stead. "They will assume I'm here to leverage my position as his friend for the good of the tribe."

"I mean, aren't you?"

"I... I don't know," Katara admitted, her voice filled with doubt. This was the one thing that gnawed at her about her appointment. She knew her father believed in her abilities, but she wasn't convinced the council of elders felt the same way. Deep down, she couldn't shake the suspicion that they were merely using her to manipulate Zuko into meeting their demands. Despite repeatedly proving herself, she never received the same recognition that Sokka did. The disparity stung, leaving her questioning her worth in their eyes.

Bato, knowing this was a touchy subject, changed the topic. "Amka, did Kova and Siku prepare you for your duties?"

"Yes, I've got this in the bag."

The rest of the morning went by quickly. Although Katara stewed over how she would be perceived by her new colleagues, she knew her age would make them undermine her. It didn't matter, of course; she would still do her best in the face of adversity.

"Bato, who should I be wary of among the ambassadors?"

"In terms of who to be wary of, I'd say the Northern Water Tribe Ambassador Cupun. He will have an issue with you being so young and a woman," he revealed. "Also..."

"Also, what?"

"He, and many from the north, have been advocating for uniting the tribes."

"That's ama—," Amka began.

"Horrible," Katara interjected, appalled at the mere suggestion of unification.

Confused, Amka asked, "Why would it be horrible?"

"The Southern Water Tribe and Northern Water Tribe are two distinct tribes with different cultures, traditions, and ways of life. Unification could lead to cultural homogenization, power imbalance, loss of autonomy, and economic disparities. The Northern Tribe could dominate the Southern Tribe, causing an unequal distribution of resources and political power," Bato explained.

"Not to mention the fights this would cause," Katara added. "Life for the existing northerners in the south would be hard."

"Oh, I never would have guessed," Amka said, embarrassed.

"There's a reason our ancestors parted ways with the north." He then turned to Katara. "He will most likely try to get on your good side. Don't trust him."

For once, Katara agreed. The south had always been the smaller tribe of the two and had suffered the most during the war. Unification talks would ultimately mean the Southern Water Tribe submitting to northern rule.

"Who else should I watch out for?" she asked.

"For Zuko's sake, be wary of Ambassador Joon of the Earth Kingdom. He's a greedy bastard who just wants to milk Zuko dry."

Before the girls could respond, Siku and Kova knocked and informed them that the meeting was about to start. They all walked to the throne room, where they were met by the sight of an expansive room featuring black pillars with gold bases and black-tiled floors. Zuko sat on an ornate throne surrounded by a wall of fire. An enormous bas-relief image of a dragon breathing fire adorned the wall behind him. The imposing atmosphere was designed to instill awe and fear in those entering.

They took their seats below the throne in the spot designated for Southern Water Tribe dignitaries. The Air Acolyte ambassador was the only ambassador already present, so they had to wait for the rest of the advisers and ambassadors to arrive. Once they did, the Head Sage began the proceedings. "All hail Agni and the Spirits' mighty power, for it has blessed us with our formidable Fire Lord Zuko. May these proceedings be fruitful for all. May you all feel Agni and the Spirits' grace."

The Head Sage then bowed to Zuko and left the room once dismissed. Head Adviser Qahir rose and stood in the center, addressing Zuko. "Sire, we've gathered here today to discuss official international business. How should we proceed?"

Behind the wall of fire, Zuko's voice boomed. "Introduce yourselves."

"Of course, sire." Qahir then directed the Air Acolyte to rise.

"I am Ambassador Boshay, of the Air Nomads," she announced, her voice carrying an airiness. She was dressed in the traditional attire of the Air Nomads: a vibrant yellow tunic, an orange shawl draped over her shoulders, a brown skirt, and tall red boots.

After her stood a handsome man, around Bato's age, dressed in long, richly embroidered dark green garments fashioned with gold trims and intricate patterns. "I am Ambassador Joon of the monumental Earth Kingdom, humble servant of King Kuei and King Bumi."

Next, a Kyoshi Warrior spoke in a resonant tone that traveled around the room. "I am Ambassador Zuiho of Kyoshi Island. Pleasure to be of service." She was dressed in a resplendent armored kimono of vibrant green silk, with an ornate metal headdress crowning her head. Her makeup was elaborate and meticulously applied. In height and all, she was the spitting image of Avatar Kyoshi, except her hair was pitch black.

A slender man, about Iroh's age, rose. "I am Ambassador Cupun of the Northern Water Tribe." He was dressed completely in the winter attire of his people, wearing a bulky, hooded coat lined and trimmed with plush fur. The exteriors had patterns resembling waves. How he wasn't burning was anyone's guess.

Bato rose as it was his turn to speak. "I am former Ambassador Bato, representing the Southern Water Tribe. I bring Master Katara as my replacement." There was some muttering around the room, but nothing reached Katara's ears. Fire Nation advisers introduced themselves after Bato was done speaking. She listened intently to each one, making sure to note who was who. She was nothing if not thorough. When she promised Zuko to help, she meant it.

Adviser Qahir stood and faced Zuko. "Fire Lord, we have all become acquainted with one another. How do you wish we proceed?"

"State the itinerary and begin official business." Zuko was stone-faced as he spoke with authority. His face bore no emotion, yet every inch of him screamed power.

One of Adviser Qahir's assistants appeared at his side and gave him the itinerary. "We have all gathered here today to discuss session two hundred and ninety-nine on the subject of reparations for the Hundred Year War. We will lead with the most affected nations first, followed by the least. The order will go as follows: Air Nomads, Southern Water Tribe, Earth Kingdom, Northern Water Tribe, and finally, Kyoshi Island."

Ambassador Boshay rose again. "Avatar Aang, the leader of the Air Nomads, finds the standing reparation payment plan to be sufficient. The Air Temples are being rebuilt to their pre-genocide state, and the search for Air Nomad cultural artifacts has been satisfactory. We only have one demand."

"What is it?" an adviser asked.

"For further assistance in the search for and reintegration of airbenders into Air Nomad culture."

After the war had ended, and Avatar Aang was acknowledged by the world as an airbender, many people came forward claiming to be of Air Nomad heritage. It was a surprise to the Avatar and his friends. Airbenders were a nomadic group, and when the Air Temples were massacred, many went into hiding in other nations. They chose to assimilate to avoid persecution and death. Now, the descendants of those who evaded capture wanted to reclaim their heritage. Some could airbend a little, while others had kept artifacts; however, all of them wanted to learn the ways of their ancestors.

"What more do you need?" an affronted adviser asked. "We already give your people thirty percent of the nation's GDP."

"We need a national broadcast to locate all Air Nomad descendants residing in the Fire Nation," she began, "as well as education for the common people on Air Nomad culture."

"Why?" another adviser asked.

"So that those interested in what they hear can properly learn the ways of the Air Nomads in the temples. Our numbers are low, and we need a growing population to be able to stand on our own. I was once Fire Nation and now I am an Air Acolyte. It is a dream of mine to see more people convert."

"That's preposterous! You'll be stealing our people!" yelled an adviser.

"I will allow it," Zuko proclaimed. "The Fire Nation owes the Air Nomads a life debt. We will do everything in our power to right our wrongs." Even as he spoke, it was clear that the majority of his advisers disagreed. Zuko didn't care; he remembered how thirteen-year-old Aang had wept in his arms after the first group of airbenders was found. His words stuck with him:

I am not alone anymore.

After that, Zuko swore to do everything he could for Aang and the Air Nomads.

"Sire, this would be a massive undertaking," stated Imin, the adviser of education. "The education curriculum for the next two years has already been set. Changing it now would be wasteful."

"I'm not ordering you to change it," Zuko corrected. "I'm ordering you to add to it. Make a plan. Ambassador Boshay, is there anything else you'd like to add?"

"No, Fire Lord Zuko."

"Southern Water Tribe, it is your turn to be heard," Adviser Qahir stated.

Bato stood from his cushioned seat. "First, I would like to discuss my tenure as Ambassador."

"You may."

"It is an honor and a privilege to stand before you all today as I reflect on my tenure as Ambassador. As I prepare to step down from this role, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude, pride, and humility. Serving as ambassador has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and I am deeply grateful for the support, trust, and collaboration I have received from so many of you.

"After the war, I was asked by my battle brother and Chief of Wolf Cove, Hakoda, to be ambassador to the Fire Nation. At first, I said no—I was tired and missed my home terribly. It wasn't until his son, Sokka, sat me down and explained his vision to strengthen our diplomatic ties, foster mutual understanding, and promote the interests of our tribe abroad that I agreed. Looking back, I am proud of the strides we have made together. Our bilateral relationships have grown stronger, our cultural exchanges have flourished, and our economic partnerships have yielded significant benefits for my people.

"One of the most gratifying aspects of my tenure has been the opportunity to work with young Fire Lord Zuko. Your commitment to excellence, your professionalism, and your unwavering dedication to our mission have been truly inspiring. It has been a privilege to witness the many ways our nations contribute to a better tomorrow. As I prepare to embark on the next chapter of my life, I do so with a heart full of gratitude. Thank you all for your support, your friendship, and your dedication. It has been an honor to serve, and I will always cherish the time we have spent together."

Bato bowed to Zuko, and the young man stated, "Thank you for your dedication to our mission. I hope your time home is as enjoyable as it can be."

"It will be, Fire Lord. Ambassador Katara would like to make a speech of her own."

"She may."

Bato directed Katara to stand and then sat down.

"It is with great honor and humility that I stand before you today as the newly appointed ambassador to the Fire Nation. This moment is a testament to the progress we have made together, and to the hope that our shared future holds. The scars of war left deep marks on our hearts and our lands. Yet, through the courage and determination of many, we have embarked on a journey of healing and reconciliation.

"I have witnessed firsthand the power of understanding and empathy. As a member of Team Avatar, I saw the transformative potential of unity and cooperation. These experiences have taught me that, no matter our differences, we are all connected by our shared humanity and our desire for peace. Today, as ambassador, I pledge to uphold these values. I will work tirelessly to strengthen the bonds between our nations, to foster mutual respect, and to build a future where children can grow up in a world free from the shadows of the past.

"We have already taken significant steps towards this goal. From cultural exchanges to cooperative projects, our collaboration has brought tangible benefits to both our peoples. But there is still much work to be done. Together, we can ensure that the flames of the Fire Nation are a beacon of hope and prosperity, not of destruction. I am deeply grateful for the trust you all have placed in me. I am committed to honoring that trust through my actions and dedication. Let us move forward with open hearts and open minds, knowing that the strength of our nations lies in our unity."

She also bowed to Zuko. "Thank you, Master Katara. Your presence here is a testament to how far we've come."

"May we return to official business?" Adviser Qahir inquired.

"Of course," Bato answered. "Katara, begin."

"The leaders of the Southern Water Tribe find the current arrangement with the Fire Nation to be acceptable," Katara began. "The Southern Restoration Project has exceeded all expectations. War prisoners who were released by Lord Zuko have either been reunited with their families or have built communities of their own with the stipend given to them. Our artifacts have been returned to us, and our nation is growing exponentially. Due to new developments, however, we want to form a new alliance with the Fire Nation."

A buzz traveled around the room.

"Large oil reserves have been found, and we want the Fire Nation to assist us in extracting, refining, and selling the oil to the world at large," Katara revealed. "In exchange for the assistance, we will sell the oil to the Fire Nation at a significantly reduced price."

Soon cries of objection could be heard from the Earth Kingdom ambassador and some Fire Nation advisers. "You cannot do this!" "That's basically daylight robbery!"

Adviser Qahir tried to quiet them down, but it was no use. It wasn't until the wall of fire around Zuko explosively reached the ceiling that they suddenly quieted down.

"Enough," Zuko said without raising his voice.

A rigid silence spread through the room. Zuko made it a habit to keep his temper in check when dealing with politics, but he couldn't just watch them yell at Katara.

"My only question is why," asked Ambassador Cupun, staring at Katara with his murky blue eyes. "Why would the South lower itself to working with the Fire Nation when the North and Earth Kingdom are available to help?"

Katara knew this question would come up. "You and I both know that the Earth Kingdom and the North already have an oil trade agreement of their own. It's only fair for the rest of us to form alliances as well."

"Fair? What do you know about being fair, child?" Ambassador Joon interjected. "The Fire Nation deserves to starve for what they've done! They slaughtered our people, raped our women, and ruined the world for a hundred years! Now you want to make an agreement with them?"

"Yes," Katara acknowledged. "Even though the Fire Nation has done wrong in the past, that doesn't mean I should continue to punish them when they're trying to make amends."

"Damn you and your leaders."

"I suggest you watch your mouth, Ambassador Joon," Zuko warned. "You have every right to dislike my nation and people, but the same can't be said about Ambassador Katara and the South. This meeting is adjourned for now; we will reconvene at a later date."

"Yes, sire," Head Adviser Qahir nervously agreed. "Rise, everyone, and bid the Fire Lord goodbye." Everyone did, some more begrudgingly than others.

"Wow, who knew that politics could be so exciting!" Amka exclaimed. "Did you see how red Ambassador Joon got?"

Katara, Amka, Siku, and Kova were walking through the busy marketplace, looking for something interesting enough to give Zuko. So far, the latter three had found intriguing wares for themselves, while Katara had found none that piqued her interest.

"Ambassador Joon always gets like that," Siku clarified in southern dialect. "He hates when anything goes the Fire Nation's way."

"He didn't need to be such a sore loser about it," Katara added, also in southern dialect. "Everyone knows the Fire Nation is the technological hub of the world. Of course, we were going to work with them."

The four friends passed by a group of crotchety old men, and one of the old geezers yelled, "Speak the common tongue or fire dialect if you're in the Fire Nation! We don't want to hear your savage language!"

Before any of them could reply, a group of young Fire Nationals spoke out. "Shut it, old man! Get with the times. The war is over."

The Fire Nationals then walked over to Katara and her friends. "Sorry about that," said the young man leading the group. "Some old folks are stuck in the past."

"Yeah, we can tell," Kova quipped. Katara smacked his shoulder.

"It's no problem, we know how the older generation can get."

"Still, you guys shouldn't be subjected to that. Let us make it up to you. A plate of fire noodles and fire gummies on us."

"We don't even know your names," Amka pointed out.

"Oh yeah," the man flushed. "My name is Utaya." He then pointed to his friends. "These are Tui and Gao." They waved their hands.

"Well, I'm Katara, and these are my friends, Amka, Kova, and Siku."

"Wait, you're the Master Katara?" the girl, Tui, questioned.

"Um... yeah," Katara replied, a bit embarrassed.

"That's so cool! I'm a big fan of your work," Tui said. She then turned to Gao and added, "Babe, it's her in the flesh." The tall, attractive boy just nodded his head and affectionately patted her arm.

"Never thought I'd see the day I'd meet a war hero," Utaya said. "Now we really have to take you guys out."

"There's no need for that," Katara disagreed.

"Oh, there is," Tui insisted. "My parents own a restaurant a few stalls down. We can eat there for free."

It was getting late in the day, and she could tell the others wanted to eat, so she agreed. On the way there, Utaya and Tui asked Katara question after question, and most were happily answered by Amka, while Gao walked in the back with Kova and Siku. Tui led them to a quaint restaurant advertising food from all nations. "This is my parents' place, guys," Tui informed them.

They entered the restaurant and were greeted by the sight of a charming small establishment. The floors were mahogany wood, and the tables and chairs were a reddish-brown. The walls had art depicting all four nations and elements. The place wasn't densely packed, but there was a crowd. "Tui, your parents' place is so cute," Amka complimented.

"Oh, thank you."

She led them to a table and went to the back of the diner. She quickly returned with two middle-aged folks following. "Mom, Dad, this is Master Katara and her friends, Amka, Siku, and Kova."

"It is an honor to meet you all," her dad said.

"Whatever food you order is on the house," her mom added.

"There's no need for that," Katara said.

"It's not every day you meet a war hero, Katara," Utaya said. "Besides, we offered to take you guys out."

"Yeah, Katara, let them do this," Amka insisted.

"Well, if you guys say so."

Tui's parents took their orders—seven plates of mild fire noodles and fire gummies for dessert—and went to the back kitchen to start preparing.

"So how are you finding the Fire Nation so far?" Tui asked, sitting next to Gao.

"We've only been here for two days, so there's not much to tell, besides the fact that so many of your people are rude," Amka revealed. Katara kicked her shin. Ever since she was a child, Amka had the habit of talking too much. It was adorable when she was little, but a little annoying now that she was grown.

"We are really sorry about that. Not all of us are like that," Utaya apologized.

"Oh, we know. The Fire Lord is the sweetest," Amka began. "He got Kat—"

"Anyways," Katara loudly interrupted. "The Fire Nation isn't all bad. I met some lovely fire nationals during the war."

"Are you talking about when you were in Jang Hui or Fire Fountain City?" Tui asked. "I actually visited both because of you. The Jang Hui River is amazing in the summer."

"That's...cool?" Katara replied, embarrassed by how much Tui knew about her. "How do you know I was at Jang Hui and Fire Fountain City?"

"All your adventures during the war have been publicized," Utaya answered. "There are plays and books about you guys in Team Avatar."

"I really like what you did as the Painted Lady," Tui complimented. "Every time there's the Spirits Festival, I dress up as you or the Painted Lady."

"Oh, Katara, it seems you've got a fan," Siku teased.

Katara blushed, flustered by the whole interaction. She was used to having fans, but each time she encountered one, she couldn't help but feel flattered. "Thank you so much, Tui."

"I've always wanted to know who your favorite opponent was to fight."

"Zuko," Katara said without thinking. "Before he joined our team, fighting him was exhilarating. Now, sparring with him keeps me on my toes."

"Oh, I thought you'd say Princess Azula."

Instantly, the mood turned sour. Whenever her fight with Azula was brought up, Katara couldn't help but feel guilty—guilty for Azula's current state of mind and the scar Zuko bore at the center of his chest.

Her thoughts must have shown on her face because Utaya said, "Way to kill the vibe, Tui. You know no one talks about Princess Azula."

Tui instantly apologized for her blunder, but Katara waved it away. "It's alright. Fighting Azula is... it's like fighting death itself."

"But you sure knew how to keep up with her," Amka added, trying to lift her mood.

"Yeah, I sure did."

Thankfully, Tui's parents brought trays of food. The group of young adults dug into their bowls of fire noodles, Katara having the mildest one, of course. Afterwards, they had their fire gummies, and the fire nationals laughed at the tribespeople's reaction to the spicy candy. It got dark outside, and it was decided it was time to head back to the palace. Gao, Tui, and Utaya agreed to walk them there. Once they reached the palace, Katara and Amka promised to meet up with them again in a few days. Kova and Siku went to find Bato to discuss their departure in the morning while Katara followed Amka to her room.

When they got to her room, Amka went to her crate of things and took out beads and wire. Katara watched her work on them and asked, "What are you doing?"

"I'm making friendship bracelets for Kova, Siku, and our new friends."

"Don't you think we're a little too old for friendship bracelets?"

"One is never too old for gifts from a friend."

This sparked an idea in Katara. "Do you have more wire and beads that I can use?"

"Yes, I even have some leather ribbons."

"Perfect."

Zuko roared fire at the three guards advancing on him. Thankfully, they had shields protecting them from the blast. One got close enough to raise their dao sword to strike at Zuko, but he quickly deflected and kicked him in the chest. Another came running, and she had her legs swiped from under her. Now only one remained. Zuko and his Head Guard, Midori, circled one another, waiting to see who would attack first. The suspense got to Zuko, and he went to strike her midsection, but she saw this and moved out of the way. Instead, she grabbed his extended arm, pulled him closer, and kneed him in the gut. Zuko fell flat to the ground, and just as he was about to rise, he felt the tip of her blade on his neck.

"Do you yield, sire?"

"I yield."

"You're losing your touch. You should train more."

Zuko didn't respond. Midori offered him a hand, but he lifted himself up instead. Zuko had been in a foul mood all day after the ambassadors' meeting. He was pleased to have a trade alliance with the south, but he knew the north and Earth Kingdom wouldn't take the development lying down. His afternoon tea with the nobles was an unpleasant affair filled with backhanded compliments and snide remarks. He just wished for one day to go his way.

"There you are, Zuko," Katara said, entering the training grounds. "I've been looking everywhere for you." She jogged up to him and gave him a hug.

"I did tell you where I was going to spend my evening."

"Yeah, but you didn't say anything about missing dinner."

"Okay, my bad."

"I wanted to give you something." From her pocket, she took out purple dao sword handle wraps and tassels with beads at the ends. "I made these for your swords since I know how much you like to sword fight."

"Katara, I'm touched."

"Want to head to the gardens and talk?"

"Yeah."

Her face lit up with a smile that brightened his terrible day. As she pulled his arm through the palace to the gardens, Zuko realized his day wasn't that bad.

I've got a lot to explain.

First thing first, the air nomads live on. It never made sense to me how the Fire Nation successfully killed a nomadic group of people at one go. Even if Sozin looked for them the rest of his life, it is impossible for him to end them all. Many of them would have went into hiding.

Second, Kyoshi Island has its own ambassador. Kyoshi made them a sovereign state from the Earth Kingdom, so Kyoshi Island is its own nation.

Thirdly, the comics and LOK discussed how the tribes' unification would go. I believe at this time, it would have gone terribly since the south would most likely be overtaken by the north.

Finally, there are different languages! I'm just trying to be realistic. There's no way a whole world doesn't have different dialects for different regions.

I hope you enjoyed❤
See y'all soon :P